adulterate

How to Split "adulterate" into Syllables

The word adulterate is divided into 5 syllables: a·dul·te·ra·te. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• a — 1st syllable
• dul — 2nd syllable
• te — 3rd syllable
• ra — 4th syllable
• te — 5th syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of adulterate:

• IPA: /əˈdʌltəɹət/

📖 Definitions

1. adulterate (comparative more adulterate, superlative most adulterate) (archaic, literary)
2. Corrupted or made impure by being mixed with something else; adulterated. [common in the 16th and 17th c.]

📚 Word Origin & History

From Latin adulterātus (“adulterate, adulterated, defiled, polluted, counterfeited”), perfect passive participle of adulterō (“to adulterate, defile, commit adultery (with), counterfeit”) (see -ate (adjective-forming suffix)), from ad- (“to, in the direction of”) +‎ alter (“other”) +‎ -ō (verb-forming suffix), literally “to go after someone else”. Equivalent to adultery +‎ -ate. From Latin adulterātus, see Etymology 1 and -ate (verb-forming suffix).

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down adulterate into syllables helps with:

• Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
• Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
• Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
• Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
• Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to adulterate:

adult, adulate, adulator, adultery, adulation, adulatory, adulterer, adulthood.